EU Debates Ethanol's Safety Amid Cancer Risk Concerns

The European Union is assessing whether ethanol, widely used in hand sanitisers, should be deemed a carcinogenic substance. A working group within the European Chemicals Agency flagged it as potentially toxic. The decision could impact its usage in various products, though WHO currently deems it safe for hand hygiene.

The European Union is deliberating on whether to classify ethanol, a key component in many hand sanitisers, as a hazardous substance with potential cancer risks, as reported by the Financial Times.

A report dated October 10 from a working group within the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) highlighted ethanol as a toxic chemical that could increase cancer and pregnancy complication risks. This suggested a need for its replacement in cleaning products. The ECHA's Biocidal Products Committee will convene from November 25 to November 28 to discuss the matter further.

Should the agency's expert committee determine ethanol to be carcinogenic, a substitution is likely to be recommended. The European Commission holds the authority to make the final verdict. Notably, the ECHA has indicated that ethanol may continue to be approved for certain uses if safety can be assured and no suitable alternatives are available, despite World Health Organization's classification of ethanol and isopropanol as safe for hand hygiene.

(With inputs from agencies.)